Classic post-punk hits from Western music: a roundup of popular tracks you should listen to first

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Post-punk, which emerged from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, is a major movement in Western music that inherited the spirit of punk rock while pursuing experimental and innovative sounds.

Characterized by a dark, melancholic atmosphere, highly artistic musicianship, and lyrics with sharp social insight, the genre has continued to exert a strong influence on contemporary bands across generations.

The word “punk” alone might surprise some listeners, but in this article we introduce classic post-punk anthems—beloved by passionate fans in Japan as well—and highlight the revival boom that has occurred since the 2000s.

Beginners are welcome to dive in!

Classic post-punk masterpieces from Western music: a roundup of popular tracks you should listen to first (41–50)

FrightenedThe Fall

The Fall – Frightened

FrightenedThe Fall

The Fall is a British band formed in 1976 that has been active for over 30 years.

“Frightened” is a track from their debut album, Live at the Witch Trials, released in 1979.

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When The Laughter StopsYard Act

Yard Act – When the Laughter Stops ft. Katy J Pearson

When The Laughter StopsYard Act

The latest track from Yard Act, drawing attention as a rising force in post-punk, is a song where wistfulness and skepticism intertwine.

The collaboration with Katy J Pearson adds a fresh allure, blending elements of dance-rock while exuding an eerie atmosphere.

Serving as an advance single from their album “Where’s My Utopia?”, slated for release in March 2024, the song’s lyrics revolve around a journey of self-discovery, deftly portraying feelings of challenge and disappointment that resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect track for anyone seeking a moment of pause for self-reflection and introspection amid a busy life.

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Digital TendernessAdam&the Ants

Digital Tenderness

Digital TendernessAdam&the Ants

Adam & the Ants were a British band active from 1977 to 1982, known for their pirate-like fashion.

“Digital Tenderness” is a track from their debut album “Dirk Wears White Sox,” released in 1979.

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NirvanaThe Cult

The Cult – Nirvana – BBC Broadcast 1987

NirvanaThe Cult

The Cult is a British band that originated as Southern Death Cult and began activity in 1983.

Their second album, Love, released in 1985, reached No.

4 on the UK Albums Chart.

Nirvana is one of the tracks on that album.

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In conclusion

Emerging in the late 1970s, post-punk combined a rebellious spirit with artistic sensibilities to become an innovative form of music that had a major impact on the Western music scene.

Its songs, imbued with experimental sounds and poetic lyrics, continue to captivate many listeners to this day.

Experience for yourself the legacy of those pioneers who pushed the boundaries of what music could be.